Kuala Lumpur:Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil has proposed a national initiative to preserve and revive the historical speeches and writings of Malaysia's founding leaders for the benefit of future generations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative, inspired by the reprint of pioneering journalist J. Victor Morais' "Great Wisdom of the First Malaysians," could involve retrieving rare speeches, writings, and historical accounts from archives. Fahmi plans to discuss the initiative with National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang to identify the most appropriate steps, with hopes of organizing something in conjunction with National Month celebrations next year.

Fahmi shared these plans at the launch of the reprinted book, emphasizing the significance of preserving the intellectual contributions of the country's founding figures, especially as rapid development might overshadow the understanding of the nation's history. He also mentioned that the book's initial print run of 2,000 copies should be expanded to reach a broader audience, offering to help raise funds for an additional 2,000 copies, subject to agreement from those involved in the publication.

He intends to distribute copies to all Cabinet ministers at an upcoming meeting to underscore the importance of understanding Malaysia's nation-building history. Meanwhile, Daily Express chief editor Datuk Sardahthisa James, also known as James Sarda, highlighted the book's value for researchers, policymakers, and younger generations, offering insights into the aspirations and challenges of Malaysia's founding leaders.

Sarda collaborated with Benedict Morais to republish the collection, originally released in 1967 under the title "Selected Speeches." He noted the difficulty in accessing speeches from leaders like Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tun Abdul Razak due to past record-keeping practices and protocols.

Benedict Morais, son of J. Victor Morais, recalled his father's journey as a self-taught journalist who gained practical experience in journalism through on-the-job training. He also reminisced about witnessing the declaration of independence in 1957 and the strong sense of unity among the people, who identified themselves as Malayans regardless of race.